To lead a horse from water

Manatee County sheriff’s patrol deputies lead their mounts July 25 from the water at Longboat Pass during a training session at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. The special patrol often is assigned to Anna Maria Island on the biggest beach crowd days — such as Labor Day, which is Sept. 4. For more, see page 2. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

Manatee County Deputy Lauren Bradley gives a thumbs up July 25 from atop Deputy Blue from Longboat Pass adjacent to Coquina Beach, where the agency conducted water training.

MCSO Deputy Dave Denmark and Deputy Gunney pose July 25 at the Coquina Beach jetty on the north side of Longboat Pass.

Deputy Serissa Thompson and Deputy Peanut pose July 25 after a training session at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Thompson said the exercise allows the mounted patrols to practice rescue technique and balance and also provides hydrotherapy for the horses.